In just three decades, Canary Wharf has undergone an amazing transformation.
No longer just an industrial wasteland that was left behind after the London docklands south and east of the city closed, Canary Wharf’s state of the art towers have given this part of East London a new lease of life.
Notably bringing major financial corporations and business institutions to this part of the city, thanks to its excellent connections to central London.
Here, by the banks of the Thames, living in Canary Wharf has become not only the preserve of young and single business professionals but also families, thanks to the residential developments that have arrived in the E14 postcode in recent years.
With new Crossrail Place restaurants and shopping centres as well as the brand new station for the rail link across east and west London, this area that was once only known for being the central London financial district has now taken on a whole different meaning.
People from all walks of life now choose to rent and buy apartments in the exciting and attractive residential developments that have made Canary Wharf a top place to live.
Read on now and learn more about why this part of the capital has become such a popular choice and the kind of lifestyle you too could enjoy if you moved here.
Is Canary Wharf a good place to live? In this article you’ll find:
- Where to Live in Canary Wharf
- Transport Links
- Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf’s Lifestyle
- Education in Canary Wharf
Where to Live in Canary Wharf
Canary Wharf’s appeal has attracted residents of all kinds. The office blocks of the 1980s business district have now been replaced with an estate of residential tower blocks and flats which are under constant development here. Many are “affordable” homes and are being released onto the property market.
Canary Wharf is committed to becoming the best “people place” giving renters and homeowners the chance to live close to where they work.
Thousands of homes have been created at Wood Wharf along with green spaces, shops, community facilities, a doctor’s surgery, restaurant, and school, ensuring that even families with children have access to everything they need to live in Canary Wharf.
Meanwhile, at West India Quay, the Spire London development is the biggest modern residential tower anywhere in Europe.
It has attracted a great number of first time buyers who have chosen Canary Wharf as their property hub of choice over South West London’s more traditional charms.
Although flats are still the dominant property type on the market in these areas, some high end period homes and modern warehouse conversions can be found. Yet it is the exciting lifestyle that the high towers offer residents that is attracting many people to buy property here.
For example, the Spire London development offers a cinema, bar, gym and infinity pool for the property residents to share.
With many apartments boasting private sky gardens along with spectacular views across the docklands area, it isn’t too surprising that the E14 postcode is a place that is in high demand.
Singles, couples and families all want to enjoy everything that city living has to offer both by day and by night.
Transport Links
Crossrail has proved to be key in making Canary Wharf and the Isle of Dogs such an attractive area to rent and buy property.
The Elizabeth Line slashes the journey into the city of London to just six minutes – perfect for those who are commuting to work from the area every day – and for those who are travelling abroad, the journey to Heathrow is cut to under 40 minutes.
The DLR also links the developments in this area with the heart of London. You can find these stations at Canary Wharf, at South Quay, Heron Quay and West India Quay.
The Jubilee Line also connects this area of East London with the centre of the capital, being just six stops away from Bond street.
When you add into the mix the proximity of London City airport and the Thames Clippers ferries, it isn’t too surprising that this area is becoming one of the top places for property owners who like to live within easy reach of work, restaurants, shopping and night life.
It is these transportation links that have led to Canary Wharf becoming one of the best places to invest in the property market.
Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf’s Lifestyle
Those who know and love their brands will find everything they want at Canary Wharf’s covered malls. Not only can you find a huge branch of Waitrose selling homewares and clothing as well as food, but there are also famous names like Michael Kors, Zara and Karen Millen to be found here.
When it comes to bars and restaurants, you can get pretty much any cuisine you wish, from Indian and Hawaiian to Danish and Japanese treats.
Giant Robot is your best choice for street food, although market street stalls selling a range of foods can be found in West India Quay throughout the week.
Meanwhile, bars that offer a lively nightlife can be found all around Canary Wharf, including many with impressive views.
Canary Wharf also boasts an impressive roof garden with beautiful views on Crossrail Place’s top floor, but for those looking for more areas with green space, there is Mudchute Park and Farm.
Canary Wharf also boasts plenty of leisure opportunities with two cinemas, an arts centre, pools and sporting facilities – including the One Canada Square health club which is the biggest of its kind in Europe.
Education in Canary Wharf
At one time, Canada Square and the surrounding Canary Wharf area was only for businesses, not for families.
But now, all that has changed.
Canary Wharf is now much more popular with parents of young children, and this means primary schools have started popping up around the area including some rated Outstanding as well as three Free Schools.
The area also offers several Good and Outstanding secondaries and a Montessori private school nearby, making this one of the best places for families who want to benefit from a great education for their sons and daughters.
It’s clear that Canary Wharf offers plenty for all kinds of renters and buyers.
From the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable and exciting lifestyle within easy reach of the centre of the capital to excellent schools, a wealth of nightlife and retail options, and, of course, spectacular panoramic vistas.
It comes as no surprise that more people than ever before are seeking out homes around this one-time industrial centre.
So, if you’re ready to make your move and discover more about buying a home in this part of London.
You’ll soon have all the information you need to make an offer on the home of your choice in this popular part of the capital.
